Human fossils can tell us a lot about human characteristics in the different ages. Researchers want to study the human skulls to find out when and why crooked teeth appeared.

Key takeaways:

• People from distant ages did not have dental problems. These people had straight and symmetrical teeth as evidence from fossils and skeletons indicates.
• There is no proper answer why people have crooked teeth despite millions of dollars used on retainers and braces in an attempt to get a perfect smile.
• Some significant change must have happened during the Industrial revolution marked by a shift to urban lifestyles. People now have narrower mouths.

Read the full story here

http://www.newsworks.org/index.php/health-science/item/96934-could-old-skulls-help-us-understand-why-we-have-crooked-teeth

Brushing your teeth properly and regularly helps to minimize visits to the dentist. This information will help you practice effective brushing.
Key takeaways:

• Taking care of the teeth is often forgotten about. The teeth are important for oral health as well as for your general health and well-being.
• Brush your teeth for at least two minutes twice every day with fluoride toothpaste.
• Brush your teeth the last thing before jumping into bed and on one other occasion during the day.

Read the full story here

https://www.bda.org/brushing

The effects of tooth loss on overall well-being have been unknown. A review of gerontological data from Japan found the following.

Key takeaways:

• The maintenance of good oral health is important for older adults to prevent disability and a host of other health problems.
• �Older adults who had significant tooth loss were less functional when compared with people who lost fewer teeth.
• �Older adults should receive the necessary support required to maintain good oral health self-care practices and to access adequate dental care.

Read the full story here

http://neurosciencenews.com/aging-tooth-loss-mental-health-5042/

It is recommended that you should brush your teeth twice everyday in the morning and the evening. Mindful brushing becomes a good way to commence the day and retire for the night.

Key takeaways:

• Immediately after beginning to brush, relax the neck and the jaw and breathe through the nose slowly and deliberately.
• Loosen your grip on the toothbrush and feel the bristles move over the teeth and the gums. You should feel the taste of the toothpaste.
• Breathe deeply through the nose as you rinse the mouth. Feel and take note of the clean teeth.
• Feel gratitude for your teeth and for the tasks they allow you to accomplish such as chewing, speaking and smiling.

Read the full story here

http://www.nytimes.com/2016/09/21/well/mind/how-to-be-mindful-while-brushing-your-teeth.html?

Coffee discolors the teeth enamel causing staining. The extra work to keep the teeth clean is worth it due to the nutritional benefits of coffee.

Key takeaways:

• Review of research indicates that coffee may prevent bone loss in the jaw offering better support for the teeth.
• Green coffee has antibacterial activity that will help protect the gums.
• Coffee in moderation will confer a number of nutritional benefits such as alertness, protecting the liver and reducing cancer. People should limit their intake to five cups.

Read the full story here

https://comparethetreatment.com/we-have-the-skinny-on-coffee-not-only-can-it-prolong-life-it-can-also-strengthen-teeth/

Children from low-income familes are less likely to receive dental treatment and sealants. In the U.S., several states are offering sealants programs in schools to guarantee good oral health.

Key takeaways:

• Dental sealants are recommended for children when their first molars grow at between 5 and 7 years and yet again when the next set of molars grows at 11 through to 14 years.
• A study indicates that children without dental sealant treatment had cavities in 77 percent of their teeth compared to 27 percent of teeth in those with sealants.
• Resin-based sealants and glass ionomer sealants are the most common with the difference being the resin based lasts longer.

Read the full story here

http://www.nytimes.com/2016/09/20/upshot/defending-your-childrens-teeth-and-dentists-the-value-of-sealants.html?smid=tw-nytimes&smtyp=cur&_r=1

Once in a while, people avoid brushing their teeth in the evening. This is not healthy as a long-term practice, however, as it affects oral health negatively.

Key takeaways:

• Bad breath is one negative from failing to brush teeth.��Bacteria in the mouth survive on particles between teeth causing foul smell.
• Gum disease can be caused by failure to brush teeth regularly. Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing is a sign of gum disease.
• Brushing your teeth at least once every day will help protect against full blown gum disease. Plaque buildup happens within a period of 24 hours.

Read the full story here

http://www.menshealth.com/health/what-happens-when-you-forget-to-brush-your-teeth?

Having a healthy mouth will help older adults to chew and enjoy their food. Additionally, a healthy mouth prevents cavities and other associated problems such as heart disease.

Key takeaways:

• Brushing with fluoride toothpaste and flossing will help to remove dental plaque that may lead to gum disease and tooth loss.
• Check for changes in the mouth such as numbness, sores, lumps, even difficulty chewing -- and immediately see a dentist or doctor.
• Dry mouth is a concern especially for people with diabetes. It can lead to infection, cavities and difficulty when talking or swallowing.

Read the full story here

https://healthfinder.gov/HealthTopics/Category/doctor-visits/regular-check-ups/oral-health-for-older-adults-quick-tips

Cracked or chipped dental fillings may lead to accumulation of bacteria that causes tooth decay. Consider getting dental work to keep teeth healthy.

Key takeaways:

• High levels of estrogen and progesterone in women may result in puffy gums that require a trip to the dentist.
• The perfect stroke when brushing the teeth is holding the toothbrush at 45 degrees and using circular motions to clean the teeth.
• Avoid diet soda which contains low amounts of sugar but still contains high acid content -- which softens enamel leading to staining and damage of teeth.

Read the full story here

http://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20354737,00.html#more

Flossing is absolutely important and cannot be replaced with mouthwash. Floss your teeth before brushing to dislodge food in between the teeth.

Key takeaways:

• Teeth should not be brushed immediately after meals to allow saliva to rebalance pH in the mouth.
• Brushes are not the same. Electric brushes are more effective at removing plaque than manual brushes.
• Gum disease does not only affect the mouth. It has been linked to diabetes, heart disease, strokes, and low birth-weight babies.

Read the full story here

http://www.womansweekly.com/health/tooth-brushing-truth-teeth-26418/